A BIT OF HISTORY
Coal mining began in Minto in 1639, with pit mines and strip mines used to unearth this resource. After almost 400 years, coal mining ended in 2010, leaving behind huge ridges of overburden, steep sided ravines, turquoise lakes and hundreds of kilometres of underground tunnels.
In 2012, Minto physician Dr. Sean Morrissy was looking for a place to go mountain biking after work. Inspired by the New Brunswick beauty he found in places like Fundy National Park, he figured…” why not here?”
As soon as he went into the woods behind his office, he found something totally unexpected. A mountain biking heaven. 400 years of mining had left massive man-made features now covered in 50 years of forest that seemed purpose built for mountain biking. The bizarre landscape made for fast, flowy trails, punctuated by steep descents, sharp climbs, and endless waterfront views. This abandoned coal mine was nothing short of a mountain biking gold mine.
What started out as 4 km of singletrack made for personal use couldn’t be kept secret. Local riders discovered the trail system and a year later, followed by riders from all over the Maritimes, Quebec and the American Northeast. The media then got wind of this phenomenon where mountain biking was transforming a dying coal mining town into a tourist destination, turning a perceived waste land into a biking paradise. The trails were featured in local, national and international media including Bike Magazine, Canadian Cycling Magazine, and National Geographic.
Now Mountain Bike Minto Inc. cares for over 40 km of some of the best singletrack trails in Eastern Canada and is host to over 4000 riders a year, mountain bike races, fondo events, hikers, skiers, snowshoers and more.
All in our own backyard.
Our Values
A leading trail system: A high quality, well maintained, sustainable trail system that respects the terrain and attracts diverse riders.
Something for all riding levels: A large, safe and progressive trail network that has something for new riders, families, recreational and elite riders.
Coal mining roots: We honor and advance the rich coal mine history of the site and the Village of Minto.
Fun to be a part of: An enjoyable experience for all involved, as a rider, resident, sponsor and volunteer.
Active community member: Actively contributing to the development of the Minto community and the recreational landscape in the region.
